271 hp, 289 cu. in. V-8 engine, four-barrel carburettor, automatic transmission, independent front suspension, live rear axle, and four-wheel power assisted drum brakes. Wheelbase: 108 in.

• Optional H.O. 271 horsepower V-8

• Pony Interior

• Offered from the Zegwaard Collection

When it comes to game changing cars, Ford’s Mustang is right up there with the Volkswagen Beetle and the Pontiac GTO. These cars hit the market and instantly defined a new category, which they went on to dominate for years. It didn’t hurt that the Mustang was relatively inexpensive, extremely good looking, and depending upon budget or inclination, could be outfitted as anything from an economy car with a straight-six to a fire breathing 289 in a variety of tunes or levels of luxury.

As the other car companies responded, Mustang became the leader of the new “Pony Car” segment, although the Plymouth Barracuda actually beat it to market. In time, Camaro, Firebird, Mercury Cougar, AMC Javelin, Plymouth ‘Cuda’, and Dodge Challengers were all players in a very lucrative market. But, from day one, they were all playing catch up to Ford’s Mustang, which found as much success on the race track as it did on the street.

The original base powerplant was the 170-cubic inch six, but most preferred the added performance of one of three 289 V-8 engines, which put out from 200 to 271 horsepower. Fortunately, for this particular Tahoe Turquoise 1966 Mustang convertible, the savvy owner checked the box for the 271-horsepower “High Output” version of the 289. Other equipment included the three-speed automatic transmission, 14-inch styled steel wheels, and the incredibly attractive two-tone Pony Interior, including a wood grain steering wheel and embossed horses on the door panels, among other places. With the white hood down, this Mustang is perfect for a cruise to the beach, and with the top up, it is elegant enough for any evening venue. Restored to original specification some years ago and having seen little use recently, a minor service and detailing will make this fine car even better.